When Jesus realized that they wanted to put him to death on account of the things he was saying and doing, he withdrew from that place but continued curing the sick since in him lay the hope of the people. I've always been amazed at missionaries who, after being evacuated from hostile territories for their own safety, insist on going back to those very territories in order to continue ministering to the very people who are hellbent on persecuting them. But I think today's Gospel passage has provided me with an answer: such missionaries follow in the footsteps of Jesus who never turned his back on those who needed his help.
Jesus realized that he was not done yet with his mission. He was aware that his ministry would ultimately lead to his death, but the sight of people who needed him led him to "back off." However, he continues ministering even in his retreat. It is interesting that he warns those to whom he has attended not to make his presence known knowing very well that such a command has not worked in the past. Jesus is obviously concerned about his safety, but the plight of the people overrides his concern. He can't help but be moved. I believe it is the same reason that drives missionaries to go back to hostile territories. The need to serve and to bring healing overwhelms them. Such missionaries know that they might be the only hope that the people have. And if they abandon their work, evil shall have triumphed.